Evaluation Research as a Society’s Expression of Rationality, Its Utility in Policy Making of Latvia. Summary of the Doctoral Thesis

Abstract

This dissertation explored the use of evaluation research in policy-making environment in Latvia as a special applied-research tool in social sciences. The main research problem is the piecemeal, selective and rare (action policies in several fields) application of fundamental assessment study approach and its small role in solving social problems. There are several aims in this dissertation that are formulated in accordance with the specific problem structure. The main issues under study are: to examine evaluation research practices utilization in Latvia's policy-making environment, to identify and classify rational social action strategies implemented in the outcome of assessment study and related modifications of assessment study's practical importance in Latvia's policy-making environment. Research interest focuses on the evaluation research as involved in implementing action strategies by actors in relation to the expressions of the practical applications of evaluation. Performing evaluation research, use and practical significance, is seen also in interconnection with understanding the concept of evaluation research, its practical importance in perceptions of policy makers, decision-makers and researchers. Theoretical framework of this dissertation consists of sociological theories of rational behavior's conceptual understanding and of approach to practically-oriented methodological principles of evaluation. Empirical data analysis and explanations are based on M. Habermas target rationality and communicative rationality categories and K. Weiss' practical use of meaning in evaluation. Understanding practical importance of evaluation research and action strategy evaluation research assessment was empirically explored with the help of qualitative interviews. Empirical research data supports the main conclusion of dissertation that policy-making environment in Latvia has a typical assessment aim-rational action strategy of groups involved in evaluation; however, it does not meet a specific practice-oriented approach of evaluation framework. The lack of action elements of the strategy communicative rationality in the interaction of involved groups significantly reduces the role of assessment study in identifying the most effective solution models for social problems and their application in the policy-making practice in Latvia.